Old Lyme — As Lyme-Old Lyme High School graduates in blue and white caps and gowns listened Friday, speaker Michelle Gao encouraged them to "remember to leave no doors unopened."

Gao advised her fellow graduates to reflect on their high school journey and open the next door in front of them.

"Smile forward," she said, "and step through that threshold."

Principal James Wygonik advised the Class of 2013 that taking meaningful risks, though sometimes frightening, would exhilarate and fulfill them.

"You have one life," he said. "Be sure to live it."

History teacher Aron D'Aquila told class members to trust themselves. He reflected on how he gave up plans to be an engineer in college to pursue his passion for history. He left the graduates with these words: "Be true to yourself and trust."

With their high school behind them, the graduates enthusiastically walked onto the stage one by one amid cheers and applause and shook hands with Board of Education Chairman James Witkins and Superintendent Ian Neviaser before receiving their diplomas.

The graduates speaking Friday further reflected on how their educational experience helped develop them into the people they are today.

Salutatorian Maria Awwa said the school's transformation during its renovation mirrored their own development into unique individuals.

"Now, as this school stands here before us ready to bring on the new wave of students, we stand here, ready to bring on our own future," she said.

Class President Nora Syed said the class has overcome adversity and moved from their uncomfortable middle school years to become confident high school seniors.

"Though our paths diverge after tonight, we will always remember our place in this community and the impact it has had on us as a result of the support from family, friends and staff," she said.

Valedictorian Jennifer Kowalski said the graduating class was so fortunate to have their families, teachers and each other, and definitely would shatter the myth of the unlucky number 13.

"We are lucky to have friends that are always there for us," she said.